Coffee Packaging Ebook

Coee Packaging Guide StandUpPouches.
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Copyright 2016 | StandUpPouches.net | All Rights Reserved Worldwide. 1

Coee Packaging Guide StandUpPouches.net
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About Us
At StandUpPouches.net we make it easy to get your product into the right stand up pouch for
your particular application. Need something custom printed? We can handle it. Stock and plain
stand up bags that can ship today? Weve got those too in a number of sizes and colors.
Give us any challenge and we can meet it! Remember, Its Your Product...Package It Properly
Some of the products that are using Stand Up Pouches include:
Food itemsflour, grain, pasta, cereal & granola

Health Food Itemsprotein powder, chia & flax
Coffee and Tearoasted, whole beanloose leaf tea
Liquidssuch as juice, BBQ sauce, even alcohol
To request a FREE sample of our stand up pouches, click here!

1
Coffee
Packaging
101
Coffee. The elixir of life. The rich, dark liquid that sustains us. One whiff of freshly ground or
brewed beans is often all it takes to convince us to rise in the morning, and that first sip acts as
a welcome jolt that gets our blood flowing. From late nights cramming for a test, to early
mornings preparing for an important meeting, those of us who enjoy the caffeinated beverage
can credit it with getting us through so many vital tasks.
Coffee aficionados are serious about their beans, their brewers and the overall experience of
drinking their beloved beverage. Coffee is an important part of our culture in the 21st century,
and enthusiasts actively seek out cafes and companies that take craftsmanship and
presentation seriously. While some will settle for a quick cup at a drive-thru or convenience
store, many others prefer to master the art of brewing at home, and the perfect pot begins with
selecting the beans and brand from their local store.
Because todays shoppers are inundated with so many different product options and messaging
from numerous CPG companies, grabbing their attention requires an effective communication
strategy that speaks to them within those crucial first few decision-making seconds. Were
experiencing the so-called third wave of coffee, meaning a movement has emerged in the
specialty coffee industry that has established a certain appreciation for the drink, where it is now
viewed as a craft beverage similar to the way fine wine and micro-brewed beer are perceived.

Because coffee has garnered this newfound status and attention, brands must convey the high
quality and artisanal methods of production using visual cues. The easiest and most effective
way to do this is through sleek, modern and innovative coffee packaging.
Big brands like Folgers and Maxwell House have embraced flexible coffee packaging options in
recent years, launching new gourmet-style roasts and flavors and differentiating them from
classic varieties through their distinct packages. These two brands represent the initial phase of
packaged coffee that is recognized by its convenience and availability for home brewing.
Although staples, many of todays consumers have considered these budget brands grounds
lacking in quality and taste, but the enactment of more modern packaging styles have boosted
their credibility and shifted perception away from mass-marketed, inexpensive coffee.
Though packaging styles have changed and become more advanced in the 21st century, some
coffee brands are still using tin cans, plastic tubs and even cardboard cartons to package their
beans and grounds. If coffee companies want to differentiate themselves and maintain the
quality of their product, switching away from these rigid containers and embracing flexible
pouches and vacuum-sealed bags is the way to go. Vacuum packaging for coffee dates back all
the way to 1900 when the founders of Hill Bros. Coffee developed a process for removing air
from coffee containers to boost the freshness, aroma and taste of their coffee beans. This
helped usher in the 20th centurys new developments in the way coffee is packaged, preserved
and presented in stores.

In the 1900s, consumers began expressing

their desire to learn more about the origins of
the coffee they purchased and have a better
understanding of various roasting styles. This
century marked the era when our coffee
vocabulary began to evolve and expand, with
drinks like espresso and lattes becoming
adopted as more cafes began cropping up
around the United States. Coffee drinking
became a social experience, and Starbucks
was highly influential in drawing people out of
their homes and into brick-and-mortar coffee
shops to enjoy their caffeinated drinks. Now, in
the new millennium, consumers look to
replicate the intimate coffee shop experience
right in their own homes. Purchasing specialty
roasts and innovative brewing equipment has
become commonplace, and more drinkers are
becoming educated about how to prepare that
perfect cup of java.
As such, aspiring coffee aficionados actively

look for brands that are transparent about the
origins of their beans and how to best enjoy
them. Because a barista or brew master isnt typically available to help shoppers select the roast
that is right for them at your average supermarket, packaging serves as the storyteller and
educator, and coffee brands must place careful emphasis on how and what they are
communicating to their customers through the packages design, colors, graphics and text.
People want to learn more about the character and heritage of the coffee they purchase, all of
which can be clearly conveyed through modernized coffee packaging that is easy to read and
grabs peoples attention in a matter of seconds.
In the first phase of brands selling coffee beans and grounds directly to consumers, the
customer was at the forefront everything was marketed to emphasize the convenience and
simplicity of brewing a cup of joe at home. Things have evolved over the years, and now the
product itself is the main focus. With thousands of different types of coffee available at retail
locations, people want to be enticed by a particular flavor profile, roast and brand. This means
coffee companies have to make their product stand up and stand out on shelves, presenting
themselves as a gourmet, artisanal brand that puts painstaking detail into the preparation of their
beans, resulting in the freshest, richest and delicious coffee out on the market today.

But with so many brands competing to become the hallmark in coffee roasting, differentiation
and customization are key. Choosing high-end packaging that protects the product (remember
the product itself is now the star of the show) and maintains its texture, color, flavor, aroma,
oils, quality, and structure is absolutely crucial. Marrying creative, standout designs with
structural elements that maintain the integrity of the beans and grounds can be accomplished by
embracing the latest scientifically developed flexible coffee packaging. Gone are the days when
coffee brands had to rely on cylindrical cans or jars to hold their beans. Lightweight, eco-friendly
bags and pouches that can be custom printed on all faces of the package have become
associated with modern brands that place careful focus on the nuances of their specialty roasts
and creating an overall experience with their coffee.
Because independent coffee roasters and small businesses are thriving, mid-market and larger
coffee companies have to get creative in the way they present themselves to todays consumer.
Using packaging to articulate the subtle but all-important characteristics that differentiate their
roasts from others is an effective way to reach consumers who have become jaded and bored
with traditional advertising and promotional tactics. The days of big coffee are over, as
younger, savvy shoppers want to be wowed by an individual product rather than remain devoted
to one particular brand. Getting people to pick up your bag of coffee beans and become enticed
enough to take it home, grind it up and prepare their cup of coffee using the latest technology
means new ways of speaking to consumers and rethinking your coffee packaging are necessary.
There are various styles of innovative coffee packaging to choose from, and this guide will break
each down so you can determine which is right for you, your customer, your high-quality
product and the presentation of your unique brand.

2
Six Things
Needed for
Coffee Packaging
I. Style
When determining how you will present your coffee to the masses, selecting the style of
packaging should always be included in the first phase of developing your brand. Selecting your
product packaging is just as important as selecting a distinguishable company name and logo.
Too many companies wait until the last minute to find something that will contain their product,
often relying on their co-manufacturers to get a package filled and released to retailers. This is a
crucial mistake that can cost your business. Your product packaging is an important piece of the
branding puzzle, and a flimsy, outdated, hard-to-use package will only push consumers away.
For a product as delicate and carefully cultivated as coffee beans and grounds, a structurally
sound package is your best friend. Its important to test your packaging and ensure no product
leaks, spills, or comes in contact with outside elements because of poor packaging structure.
There are several different styles of packaging on the market today, but determining which is
right for your product should be a careful process. Testing, conducting demos and requesting
prototypes are all ways to gauge consumer response to your product and how it functions for
the end user.

We will dive deeper into the various coffee packaging styles available in the next chapter, but the
following are the most popular options out on the market today:
Quad Seal Bags

Bottom Gusset Style Pouches
Flat Bottom Bags
Flat Pouches
Rigid Jars, Canisters or Tins

II. Material
When choosing a flexible form of packaging for your coffee grounds or beans, selecting the
material structure that best tells your brands story must also be considered in the initial phase of
your product launch. While each material structure provides a strong but lightweight barrier that
keeps your goods safe from contact with external contaminants, the appearance of each varies,
allowing you to incorporate various colors and finishes into the overall visual appearance of your
package.
No matter which material you select for your flexible coffee packaging, you can be sure your
product is well protected each bag and pouch is made up of multiple laminated layers of
scientifically developed, FDA-approved film that work together to form a shield that both locks in
the freshness, flavor and aroma of your coffee while keeping outside elements (like UV rays,
water, bacteria, odor and pests) out. The unique structure of stand up pouches and flexible box
bags allows them to stand up vertically on a shelf while providing the perfect canvas for custom
printed designs that allow your brand to stand out.
Flexible coffee packaging is available in the following material structures, which we will explain
more in depth throughout this guide:
Clear/Transparent
Metalized Film or Mylar
Aluminum Foil
Printed Kraft Paper
Rice Paper
Laminated Kraft Paper

III. Features
Each flexible coffee packaging style can be custom designed to best reflect your brand and suit
the unique needs of your product. Depending on where your items are sold, your packaging can
be produced to meet the space and location requirements of any type of retailer. Hang holes
can be added to your coffee pouch for end-cap displays, and zip locks with easy-open tear
notches can be added to your coffee packaging to offer convenience to your customers and
offer them the functionality to push air out of the package, keeping your unique roasts fresher for
longer. Various types of closures can be added to your coffee bags to ensure your design
remains consistent with the look and feel your brand works to achieve.
Gas release valves can also be placed in your coffee packaging, ensuring the shelf life of your
coffee is extended and preserved. Placing your coffee in a bag that is completely sealed can
cause it to rupture due to the release of carbon dioxide after beans have been freshly roasted.
Because contact with oxygen accelerates the staling process, its important to have a package
that protects your roast from contact with air while still allowing the CO2 to escape. A valve
works to block air from getting inside the bag while de-gassing the bag so it does not fill up and
break. All available features are meant to enhance the freshness and flavor of your coffee by
protecting it from contact with oxygen and working with its various characteristics to ensure they
are locked in tight. The goal is to have your coffee tasting exactly like it did right after it has been
roasted upon no matter how many times the package has been opened and re-closed.

IV. Zip Locks

Its a simple fact but one that cannot be ignored: Consumers crave convenience. While the first
wave of coffee sales focused on making it easy for people to brew a cup of coffee quickly at
home, the concept of convenience has become an integral part of our lives in the 21st century.
We prefer things work quickly, and when we spend our hard-earned dollars on a product, we
expect it to work correctly. Theres no easier way to earn a bad review on your product than
making it impossible to open. Coffee brands, especially, want their customers to be able to dive
into their bag so they can be met with that intoxicating aroma that fills their senses with that
distinct roasted flavor. None of this can be accomplished if your coffee packaging is difficult to
open and, even worse, leaves your product tasting stale after the first use.
This is where zip locks come in the specialized interlocking grooves and ridges form a tight
seal when conjoined together, allowing aroma to be locked in the bag tightly while creating a
rigid barrier that blocks out air. Zip locks are convenient for the end user because he or she can
easily open the container by sliding or pulling apart the zipper and can re-close the container,
reducing waste and prolonging the shelf life of the coffee. There are numerous types of closures
available, including pocket zipper, single track, double track and Velcro, and the selection of zip
lock once again is determined by your products individual requirements and the overall design
of your packaging. Later in this guide, we will review the various closure features more in depth
to determine which is right for your coffee product.

V. Quantity
To gauge how long your packaging will take to arrive, and what size you will need to properly
protect your coffee grounds or beans, having a firm understanding of quantity is essential. Major
retailers will require an ample amount of packaged product prepared to arrive at their facilities
quickly, while an entrepreneur manning a small, independent roaster may have little overhead
and require only 100 or fewer pouches for his or her operation. No matter the size or scope of
your project, our team is equipped to help to get your coffee packaged properly in the time
frame you require.
Custom printed pouches for packaging coffee are available with minimum runs of 5,000 and are
best suited for brands ready to take their businesses to the next level. These are professional-
grade bags that utilize a rotogravure printing process with water-based inks, resulting in high-
quality, vibrant designs that reflect the perfection and excellence that go into preparing your
coffee for the masses. Plain stock options are also available in low minimum orders of 1,000
bags with quick turnaround times, making this the ideal option for smaller businesses preparing
to launch their product at a trade show, farmers market, festival or online.
Determining what size bag is ideal for your coffee can be achieved by referring to the guide
below. Please note: The options below are only estimates based on previous orders we have
received. Because the size of coffee grounds can vary between coarse and finely ground, and
because beans are a naturally grown product, there is no definite science to calculating which
size is perfect for each company and product. The guide below is a framework based on past
successful orders for dry products like coffee beans and grounds.
For 1 ounce (30 grams) consider our 3 x 5 x 2 Stand Up Pouch

For 2 ounces (60 grams) consider our 4 x 6.5 x 2.25 Stand Up Pouch
For 4 ounces (140 grams) consider our 5 x 8 x 3 Stand Up Pouch
For 8 ounces (250 grams) consider our 6 x 9.5 x 3.25 Stand Up Pouch
For 12 ounces (375 grams) consider our 7 x 11 x 3.5 Stand Up Pouch
For 16 ounces (500 grams) consider a 8.5 x 11.5 x 3.5 Stand Up Pouch
For 5 pounds (2267 grams) consider our 9.25 x 14 x 4 Stand Up Pouch

VI. Plain vs. Custom Printed

Both plain stock bags and custom printed pouches can serve as the ideal option for any coffee
brand, but selecting the choice that is best for your product is determined by many factors,
including budget, turnaround time, quantity and more. Often, coffee companies will begin
packaging their product in a plain stock stand up pouch or flat bottom stand bag after deciding
against outdated, rigid packaging options like tins or plastic canisters. Stock pouches allow
brands a bit more leeway for experimenting with sizes, features and material structures while
ensuring their coffee beans and grounds are well protected. However, with new digital printing
technologies available, companies can also receive a very small amount of custom printed
pouches (with quantities as low as ONE) in a matter of days to gather feedback and demo their
product in a more personalized, professional package.
All stock and printed coffee pouches are made in our ISO 9001 Certified plant and feature 5-mil
thick premium film structure. Their unique rounded corners give the pouches a more
modernized look while working to safeguard the product inside from vapor, odor, moisture and
light. Flat bottom stand bags are similar in structure but are designed to mimic the shape of a
traditional cardboard box with plastic liner. This solution is much more protective than a box and
results in less waste than other packaging options.
Stock pouches offer coffee brands the option to apply their own sticker or label on the outside
of the stand bag, while custom-printed packages are handled with a different approach.
Whereas some packaging providers hotstamp their pouches (apply a printed image on an
already-assembled stock bag), pouches at StandUpPouches.net are printed to each brands
individual specifications and uses their unique designs and raw materials to create a bold,
vibrant package that stands out on store shelves.
Custom printed pouches set the big boys apart from younger, newer brands by giving each
product that is packaged its own distinct identity. We make it easy for coffee brands to turn their
design dreams into reality by uploading artwork ideas or even rendering a 3D model of their
finished product packaging right from their computer or mobile device. Our team of graphic
designers is available to help craft the perfect branding assets that set your coffee apart from the
competition, and our ability to supply unique styles of packaging (such as spouted pouches for
cold brew or stick packs for instant coffee) guarantee your product will stand out and launch
your business into a new era.

3
Five Main
Styles of
Coffee Packaging
Just as consumer preference has evolved over the years, so too has the way in which coffee is
sold and presented. Even classic brands that have been roasting and producing coffee for the
past century are rethinking the way in which they are packaging their grounds in an effort to
keep up with their customers changing habits and demands. Sustainability is top of mind for
many of todays coffee drinkers, and staple coffee brands are now making eco-friendly practices
a key part of their overall operations. From the reduction of raw materials to the cultivation of
their coffee beans, much can be done in the manufacturing phase to help companies lessen
negative effects on our ecosystem.
Packaging is an important component in allowing brands to communicate their commitment to

sustainability, as it serves as the mascot or billboard for any coffee company and product and
can convey both the origins of a roast and the sustainable practices that have gone into
packaging, shipping and selling it. Flexible packaging options have become the preferred
solution for coffee brands that are making the environment a top priority. Because coffee bags
and pouches are produced as all-in-one protective containers (compared to jars and tins that
contain extra plastic lids and foil seals), they can be flattened and recycled without crowding
landfills or burdening end users with extraneous trash.

Flexible pouches and bags also require less fuel to transport from the warehouse to retail
locations, as they are of a much lighter weight than heavy glass jars or plastic tubs. These
pouches can be broken down into recyclable regrind that can then be used to produce items
like park benches and picnic tables, allowing coffee brands to have a positive impact on
communities around the world.
Below are a few of the most popular coffee packaging styles available on the market today. Just
as no two coffee brands or products are exactly alike, the packaging style that best fits your
offerings can be determined by considering the various characteristics outlined in the previous
chapter.
I. Quad Seal Bags
Known as the traditional style coffee bag OOOOOOOOOOOOO

(used by big brands like Starbucks), these
stand-up packages feature four sealed OOOOOOOOOOOOO
corners, a fold-over bottom and side
gussets. This allows the bag to hold 8, 12 or OOOOOOOOOOOOO
even 16 ounces of coffee beans or grounds
while allowing the package to stand upright OOOOOOOOOOOOO
on shelves. These bags can be made to
include a tin-tie closure, resealable tape or a
OOOOOOOOOOOOO
zip lock on top to make opening and closing
simple for the
OOOOOOOOOOOOO
end user. OOOOOOOOOOOOO
The downside
to selecting
OOOOOOOOOOOOO
this type of
packaging is that it can become unstable and flop over as more
coffee is removed from the bag. When it is full and heavy enough,
it will remain vertically without any issues, however. Another
concern with this type of bag is zip locks can be troublesome, as
the side gussets can restrict how wide the bag can be opened.
There are workarounds and alternatives to this, but they can be
expensive and require a large minimum run. Nevertheless, these
traditional quad seal bags can be produced in clear film,
metalized film or Mylar and foil material structures.

II. Bottom Gusset Stand Up Pouches
One of the most innovative options in coffee

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
packaging, stand up pouches (often used to
package products like granola or trail mix) OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
can also be used to properly protect and hold OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
fine coffee grounds or whole beans. The OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
bottom of the packaging is sealed to create a OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
base, allowing the pouch to consistently OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
stand upright on shelves. Pouches serve as OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
the perfect, lightweight alternative to OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
traditional cylindrical jars or tins because they
offer wide front and back faces that can be
custom printed with your coffee brands OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
unique logos, graphics and designs. OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
This type of packaging is produced with OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
multiple layers of food-grade, FDA-approved
film that are laminated together to create a
strong but lightweight barrier that protects your coffee from contact with external elements that
can jeopardize its quality, flavor or freshness. These pouches can be produced with different
types of bases known as bottom gussets and each type is based upon the weight of the
product inside the pouch. The bottom gussets work together with the side panels to ensure the
package remains standing upright while safeguarding against leaks, punctures or breakage.
Each pouch can be made to include various features like hang holes, deep tear notches and any
reclosable zip lock style.

K style bottom gusset pouches, in particular, are made with a backwards K that allows
more product to be contained near the bottom of the bag. The seals on both sides ease rise at
a 30-degree angle, taking the pressure off the sides of the pouches to allow for additional
volume and reduce the risk of puncture or tear. This is the perfect solution for packaging 1 to 5
pounds of products, and each pouch can be produced with a metalized foil, glossy, clear or
matte finish.
Companies packaging heavy, bulky items or larger quantities of coffee beans or grounds
may shy away from choosing flexible packaging for fear that lightweight, pliable containers wont
adequately hold their items and make them easy to move, carry, or stock on shelves. The reality
is, plow bottom stand up pouches were specifically designed for this very reason, and their
scientifically developed layers of film are expertly laminated together to make them much
stronger than traditional plastic bags and
cardboard boxes.
This type of bottom gusseted stand up pouch

features a unique corner seal fold at the
bottom that is shaped like a W. As a type of
minimal seal packaging, it has become the
preferred way to contain granular products or
finely ground espresso roasts because none
of the product will sneak through the cracks
and get wasted or spoiled.The weight of the
items inside help support the pouch, resulting
in a mutually beneficial relationship where the
packaging keeps everything locked in tight
and resistant to puncture, tear or breakage.

Lastly, the most common style of stand up pouch is the round bottom gusset. Round gusset
packaging is a highly favored style for products weighing less than 1 pound. The gussets edge
is welded to the side of its supporting laminated layers, strengthening the packages overall
structure and allowing it to easily stand upright. Lightweight products are generally delicate and
fragile, which is why they need to be contained in a package that will stand securely without
falling over. Because much of the product falls near the bottom, a round gusseted pouch can be
shorter in height, mimicking the size of smaller goods like grains, coffee grounds, loose-leaf tea,
and flour. Like all custom stand up pouches, round gusset packaging can then be customized to
reflect your companys branding and creative designs.
At StandUpPouches.net, we almost always encourage our customers to think big. Packaging

coffee, however, is a unique circumstance in which we actually tell our customers to think small
at least when it comes to the size of ground coffee packaging. Flexible coffee packaging is
intricately engineered to keep ground coffee fresh for as long as possible, and small coffee
pouches or bags are optimal for offering a fresh cup every morning. This is achieved by
minimizing the factors that cause ground coffee to lose its taste in the first place. By using small
packaging, your ground coffee will be protected from light exposure and moisture. Using the
right barrier film layers will also keep your coffee protected from being exposed to air for
prolonged periods of time another factor that contributes to stale-tasting coffee.

III. Flat Bottom Bags
The so-called new kid on the block, this style of

packaging mimics the shape of a box while
OOOOOOO
offering significantly more flexibility and protection
for products like coffee beans and grounds. One
of the most innovative styles on the market
OOOOOOO
today, this bag is similar to the quad-seal style in
that it features a flat bottom gusset and side
gussets, but the base is completely flat, solving
OOOOOOO
the issue of the bag falling over as more product
is taken out of it. These bags stand erect
regardless of the amount of product or weight
OOOOOOO
inside the bag because the side gussets hold
more volume in a smaller area.
OOOOOOO
Flat bottom bags use less film than any other
packaging style, requiring 15% less than traditional stand up pouches. This type of packaging
can be produced to hold up to 5 pounds of coffee product and can be manufactured with or
without a gas valve. The bags can also be made to include a resealable zip lock and tear notch,
and they are available in clear, Mylar, metalized film, foil or natural-looking kraft paper.

IV. Flat Pouches OOOOOOOOOOO
These 3-side seal bags lie flat and are traditionally

used for single-serve coffee products. This type of
OOOOOOOOOOO
packaging is produced with a form, fill and seal
machine that converts and seals rolls of film while OOOOOOOOOOO
loading in a certain amount of coffee. Another way
of producing these bags is having the 3-side seal OOOOOOOOOOO
pouch made in advance, where they can then be
filled with coffee by hand or other pieces of
equipment. There is no need for a zip lock or gas
OOOOOOOOOOO
valve if using this single-serve packaging option,
and these bags are almost always made with Mylar
OOOOOOOOOOO
or metalized film.
OOOOOOOOOOO
V. Old-School Rigid Containers

Jars, canisters, tins and glass containers are falling by the wayside as more brands embrace
modern new packaging solutions for their carefully crafted coffee. The reason these traditional
containers are becoming outdated is primarily because of their toll on the environment and high
costs to produce, store and ship. This type of packaging is generally more expensive to produce
and fill, and it requires significantly more energy to manufacture and deliver from the warehouse
to stores. Many of these containers cannot be resealed, and if they can, they include numerous
extra packaging materials (lids, foil, etc.) in addition to the container itself. This means more trash
for the end user, and more packaging parts a coffee brand has to design and pay for.

Glass jars can shatter, and their heft isnt convenient for most coffee drinkers. Rigid cylindrical
containers take up a significant amount of shelf space both in stores and peoples homes,
meaning less room for more of your product line. The shape also restricts how much you can
design the package with your custom branding, logos and text. Some consumers complain of
an aluminum taste from coffee packaged in tins (not to mention the risk of rust), and the last
thing an artisanal coffee company wants is the flavor of their beans being jeopardized by the
container that is supposed to keep them fresh. Consumers also associate these rigid tubs and
tins with older big brand coffee companies that push out products without focusing on the
craft of roasting and perfecting the flavor of every bean. Flexible bags and pouches are often
embraced by small businesses and skilled entrepreneurs people trust to put the time, care and
attention to detail into each unique roast.


4
Available
Materials for
Coffee Packaging
Modern, lightweight packaging styles can be customized in numerous ways, and material
structure can play an important role in the overall design and perception of your coffee and its
presentation. Determining which material is right for your unique product takes careful
deliberation, and it should never be viewed as throwaway concern or afterthought. People
associate different colors and textures with different emotions or experiences. Gold, for example,
is often thought of as a rich and luxurious metallic, whereas red is often used to convey feelings
of romance or hurriedness.
Studies show shoppers gravitate toward softer textures on retail packaging. The look of the
product on the shelves has the ability to catch a consumers attention in a matter of seconds,
but the way it feels in their hands can evoke a much greater response. A velvety laminate can
conjure up more emotional intensity among shoppers than rigid cardboard or standard plastic.
This impacts the beverage industry specifically, as consumers are generally more likely to carry
around a drink as they go about their day, and the feeling and portability of the package must
comply with their wants and needs.
Investing time in choosing the right material structure can be just as important as designing your
company logo or choosing a name for your business, which is why weve broken down the
various options available in flexible coffee packaging for your team to make an informed
decision.

I. Clear Film
More of todays consumers expect the companies they purchase from to be transparent in all
aspects of their operations. From listing ingredients, origins, allergens and engineering processes on
the outside of the package, to taking a stand against false or misleading advertising, brands that
listen to these demands will be far more successful than those who choose to ignore their audience.
It may seem like a small detail, but choosing clear film on your coffee packaging can help boost
transparency by giving shoppers a clear view of the product, which allows them to examine its size,
shape and color before purchasing. Clear film can be custom printed with vibrant water-based inks
or left plain, and it can be used on pouches or bags with a window or without.
Although were discussing coffee here, if you imagine this type of packaging material as a car, it
would be as basic as your gathers old Chevrolet Impala a classic and popular option that
performs well and has been embraced by many. Note: Clear film will expose product to sunlight
compared to opaque material finishes, and while this isnt a universal issue, it may not be the
recommended choice for light-sensitive products.
II. Metalized Film or Mylar
If you really want your coffee product to shine, using a metallic film is a surefire way to catch
peoples attention. It conveys luxury and glam without the high price of foil, while still offering agility
and solid barrier protection. Sticking with the car metaphor, think of this as your neighbor who wants
to drive a Cadillac but can only afford a Buick and theres nothing wrong with a Buick.
Metalized film is opaque and wont let light inside, making it a great option for light-sensitive
products. Its opacity also provides a solid background for printing, making inks bolder and more
visible as no underprinting is required. Metalized film is puncture resistant and stronger than clear
film bags. This is a cost effective solution that ensures your coffees freshness and flavor will be well
preserved.

III. Aluminum Foil

Think of this material structure as your grandfathers Cadillac it contains
all the bells and whistles, is showy and sophisticated, contains premium
parts all around, and is a little over-the-top but looks good in the church
parking lot on Sunday mornings (but is it worth the cost?). Like the
metalized film, this finish is shiny and reflective, opaque, puncture
resistant and blocks out UV rays, but the price point is higher than all
other options. Foil pouches also cannot be microwaved while not
generally applicable to coffee grounds and beans, it could pose a hazard
for consumers who like to reuse packaging.
Most brands that switch away from rigid containers to flexible coffee bags
swear by a foil finish because its been around for ages and looks nice.
However, once the foil has been bent or folded, it wont spring back to its
smooth shape, and the resulting creases can actually weaken the exterior
of the packaging. Additionally, the gas valves used on these types of bags
are generally of poor quality because foil is more expensive, cheaper
valves are sometimes used to cut costs. Cheap valves arent as reliable
and effective as their more expensive counterparts, resulting in a nice
looking bag that really doesnt function as well as it should for the cost.
IV. Printed Kraft Paper
This light brown, natural-looking finish has been embraced by

many organic and healthy food and beverage companies in
recent years. It has an earthy look that mimics a brown paper
bag, allowing eco-friendly brands to visually communicate their
commitment to reducing the amount of plastic and waste
floating in landfills and waterways.
However, the papery finish isnt necessarily the most tactically

pleasing or the best option performance wise. Compare it to
the Pontiac Aztek made popular by Walter White on the AMC
TV series Breaking Bad its supposed to look cool but never
quite lives up to the promise. Some people might even call it ugly. Which brings us to our next
point

V. Laminated Kraft Paper

The cutting edge of flexible packaging material structures, laminated kraft paper has the same
natural look as the brown bag paper finish but with a slightly shiny, smooth surface that appears
more polished than traditional kraft paper. The lamination provides a protective overlay that protects
your coffee from coming in contact with moisture, while also providing an even surface for printed
designs and text. Laminated kraft paper is one of the most modern-looking material structures, and
it holds up incredibly well no matter how often it is handled or transported.
Think of this type of material as a Tesla it utilizes the most advance technological breakthroughs,
but it still the new guy in town and can take some getting used to. Brands that arent afraid to
embrace this inventive type of material for their coffee packaging will surely stand apart from the
competition while still communicating their wholesome, natural flavors and careful practices that go
into roasting their delicious beans.
VI. Rice Paper

A sleek, light and delicate option, rice paper is also a relatively new structural material in the
packaging market. Stand up pouches made with rice paper often include a clear front window,
allowing shoppers to view the product inside while breaking up the white space on the front of the
package. This material is slightly translucent, resulting in airy, almost ghostly appearance. Its a bit
like the Toyota Prius, a hybrid of different materials that is good for the environment but has the
horsepower of your neighbors riding lawnmower. A visually appealing finish but not the strongest
or most protective in the world of flexible coffee packaging.

5
Re-Closable &
Zip Lock
Styles for
Coffee Packaging
As we know, coffee is about so much more than simply getting a caffeine fix in the morning.
Subtle nuances in flavor, texture and aroma can help create an overall sensory experience that
keeps people coming back for more. While the design and appearance of your coffee packaging
are certainly important for building your brand and distinguishing your offerings from the rest,
ensuring the package functions properly and maintains the quality of your roasts is vital. Your
coffee product should always be the central focus and star of the show, and packaging should
support your expertly crafted goods without altering their shape, taste or freshness. You invest
so much time and care into getting your coffee just right, and the same attention should be
placed on guaranteeing your packaging works with your product to keep it as fresh as the day it
was roasted.
Choosing bags and pouches with tight, laminated seals is important because it ensures no
grounds slip through the cracks and no outside contaminants enter the package. Likewise, the
top of your coffee packaging should make it easy for the consumer to open and reseal the bag
to lock in freshness and prolong its shelf life. Aside from single-serve coffee, most roasters sell
their grounds in higher quantities so their customers can enjoy several brewed cups at home to
get them through (at least) their busy week. Offering convenience and including features that
makes the coffee packaging easy to use and get the product out is key for earning the trust and
loyalty of devoted coffee drinkers.

There are multiple options available for closing and resealing coffee bags, and the key is to keep
people returning to your coffee packaging (rather than pouring the grounds or beans into their
own reusable container) because it helps build brand recognition each time they return to the
bags you have designed. Not all closures are alike, and not all will work with the design or
structure of the packaging you have selected. Creating a cohesive brand is important, as is
developing packaging that includes components that all work together to, ultimately, make it
easy and enjoyable for people to use over and over. Below are the various types of re-closable
styles available for our various flexible coffee packaging options.
I. Tin Ties
This style of closure is very popular for traditional quad-seal coffee bags and flat bottom bags
the pliable tin strip is either glued or attached with double-sided tape to the bag itself. The tabs
extend on the left and right sides, allowing the consumer to pull the top of the bag apart, retrieve
their coffee, push the two open sides together, then roll the bag down and secure it shut by
bending the tin tie tabs in toward the bag. While tin ties are relatively easy to use, they can
become weakened by prolonged usage, and you run the risk of them becoming detached from
the bag because they are not built directly in to the material structure.
II. Resealable Tape
Just what it sounds like these strips of tape can be used over and over to secure the coffee bag
shut. After opening, consumers can fold down the top layers of the coffee bag and keep it closed
with the strip of tape that comes with the coffee packaging. Companies can purchase this tape at
1,000 pieces per roll, one roll per case. Another traditional option, tape works just fine to close
standard coffee bags, but with new advances in flexible flat bottom bags, more secure resealing
options are available.

III. Single or Double Track Zip Locks
This type of closure does not feature sliding zipper, but rather comes with two tracks that snap in
place. Think of this as your standard zip-lock sandwich bag closure you fill the bag with your
contents, push the air out, then squeeze, pinch or slide your finger and thumb over the top so the
two sides of the container join together and stay shut. These zip locks are more secure than the
reusable tape and can be added to stand up pouches or flat bottom coffee bags to provide a
stronger seal that works to prevent leaks, spills and staleness.
IV. Pocket Zipper

This zip lock closure is made as part of the
coffee bag, opening on one side of the pouch
only. This is a great option for a flatter, sleeker
look, and it opens up the entire back of the
package for storytelling text, graphics, labels,
logos and other custom-printed visuals.
Whereas a single or double track zip lock
allows the entire mouth of the pouch to open
so its contents could be poured, this zipper
keeps the bag slim and more contained. A
pocket zipper is a great option for flat bottom
coffee packaging and bottom gusset style
pouches.

V. Velcro Zip Lock
Using a press-lock mechanism similar to regular zip locks, this type of closure allows bags to be
resealed by gently pushing both sides of the bag together to form a seal that can be opened and
re-closed repeatedly. Compared to the regular track zipper, this style uses the fabric hook and
loop fasteners we are used to seeing on all sorts of products from shoes, vests and hats to
medical supplies and other gear.
The Velcro offers ease of use and ensures freshness and preservation of coffee inside the pouch.
The closure system works even if it comes in contact with grounds because the hooks will still
close, compared to other existing closure systems that can become obstructed and nonfunctional
when touched by finely ground particles. Velcro is one of the latest innovations in coffee
packaging technology, and it is an ideal solution for products that are consumed over time.

Bonus: Sealing Equipment Info
Sealing coffee bags requires specific equipment that can handle the job better than your average
hand impulse heat sealer. The reason for this is smaller, handheld sealers cannot effectively seal
through the four durable layers that make up a gusseted coffee pouch. Using either a hand or
5mm sealer is NOT recommended. Instead, a direct heat (also known as constant heat) type of
sealer is ideal for this type of packaging. Direct heat sealers can handle more protective, heavy-
duty packaging and are perfect for properly sealing thicker materials like foil, Mylar, cellophane
and gusseted bags.
Once you receive your preferred type of coffee packaging in the mail, youll want to make sure
you have the right tools and method to seal your product so it tastes as fresh as the day it was
roasted. Direct heat sealers are more automated and complete the job faster than smaller,
cheaper sealers, and they are utilized by leading brands that require their product to be expertly
packaged quickly and effectively.
At StandUpPouches.net, we carry
both the W-300DT and CBS-88011
sealers in our online store.
OOOOOOOOOO
The foot-operated W-300DT heat OOOOOOOOOO
sealer can seal up to 1,000 bags a
day with 20 mil film thickness, and
both jaws or sides of the heat OOOOOOOOOO
sealer are heated simultaneously so
there is better penetration to seal
thicker materials like foil pouches. OOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOO
Using the right film structure is critical
to protecting your product. The
300DT foot operated heat sealer is
often selected because it is easy to
use and get the job done fast. Just
OOOOOOOOOO
set the temperature, insert the stock
stand up pouches or foil pouch
packaging, press on the footboard
OOOOOOOOOO
and release. The heat sealer is also
equipped with protector bars around the jaws to prevent injury.
Learn more about our heat sealers by clicking the image above to visit our online store.

6
Additional
Innovations in
Coffee Packaging
Because the culture of consuming coffee has evolved and expanded over the decades, new
innovations are cropping up left and right to dazzle consumers and delight them with inventive
ways to brew and enjoy their caffeinated beverage of choice. The process of cold brewing, or
creating a smoother, less acidic coffee that isnt heated before it is chilled, has become the latest
rage. As such, coffee companies are seeking out creative ways to package the prepared liquid
in flexible containers that are protective, bold and stylish. Liquid pouches with spout are the ideal
solution for chilled coffee beverages, as they are a lighter, eco-friendlier alternative to glass or
plastic bottles. Additionally, while all flexible bags and pouches can be produced with a glossy,
matte or spot-matte finish, the majority of todays consumers have embraced the matte option
for its modern look and tactically pleasing texture.
Single-serve options have also been embraced for on-the-go consumers who are in desperate
need of a convenient caffeine fix. Starbucks helped usher in a new era of instant coffee with its
Via product line, focusing on the taste and texture of an otherwise oft-dismissed form of coffee
grounds most consumers have previously associated with low quality and a bitter, bland flavor.
Coffee brands offering their own versions of instant coffee are ordering roll stock to create small,
slim stick packs that can easily fit into a pocket, briefcase, backpack or purse without taking up
much room. These stick packs are made of the same durable, high-quality film as other coffee
packaging like stand up pouches and flexible box bags, ensuring the small grounds and
granules do not leak out of the package or become contaminated by moisture, air, light or pests.

Many unique and unconventional coffee packaging options are available, and new innovations
are being developed nearly every day. Get in touch with a project manager today to determine
what styles are available now and how your superior coffee product can stand apart from the
competition and attract todays savvy coffee aficionados.

Ready to start your coffee packaging project?
At StandUpPouches.net, flawless execution is our brand promise. We deliver flexible packaging

solutions you can count on. Guaranteed.
Contact Us
Request a Sample
Request a Quote
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Coee Packaging Guide StandUpPouches.

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All Rights Reserved

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Some of the products that are using Stand Up Pouches include:

Food itemsflour, grain, pasta, cereal & granola

To request a FREE sample of our stand up pouches, click here!

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In the 1900s, consumers began expressing

As such, aspiring coffee aficionados actively

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Quad Seal Bags

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IV. Zip Locks

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For 1 ounce (30 grams) consider our 3 x 5 x 2 Stand Up Pouch

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VI. Plain vs. Custom Printed

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Packaging is an important component in allowing brands to communicate their commitment to

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I. Quad Seal Bags

Known as the traditional style coffee bag OOOOOOOOOOOOO

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II. Bottom Gusset Stand Up Pouches

One of the most innovative options in coffee

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This type of bottom gusseted stand up pouch

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At StandUpPouches.net, we almost always encourage our customers to think big. Packaging

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III. Flat Bottom Bags

The so-called new kid on the block, this style of

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IV. Flat Pouches OOOOOOOOOOO

These 3-side seal bags lie flat and are traditionally

V. Old-School Rigid Containers

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II. Metalized Film or Mylar

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III. Aluminum Foil

IV. Printed Kraft Paper

This light brown, natural-looking finish has been embraced by

However, the papery finish isnt necessarily the most tactically

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V. Laminated Kraft Paper

VI. Rice Paper

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II. Resealable Tape

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III. Single or Double Track Zip Locks

IV. Pocket Zipper

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V. Velcro Zip Lock